Discover the Official State Flower of Georgia (When It Blooms and Where to See It!)

The cultural legacy and natural resources of each state in the United States are represented through official symbols. One such symbol is a state flower. In 1916, the Cherokee rose was selected as the official flower of Georgia. This further recognizes its significance beyond just a flowering perennial shrub.

The Cherokee Rose produces white flowers with golden yellow stamens at the beginning of each spring. This flower has five petals. At the center of the bloom is gold to represent the riches that were stolen from the Native Americans. In this article, we will explore this flower and its significance as the state flower for Georgia!

The Cherokee Rose: Discover the Official State Flower of Georgia

The Rosa laevigata, often known as the Cherokee Rose, was selected as the official “floral emblem” of the state of Georgia on August 18, 1916. This was after a joint vote of the General Assembly and approval from Governor Nathaniel Harris made the selection official. The Rosa laevigata rose is a fragrant white species that is endemic to southern China, Taiwan, and the region stretching south to Vietnam. The plant was brought to the southeast region of the United States around the year 1780. It quickly became a native species there. It was then that it was given its English name, Cherokee Rose. 

The Cherokee Rose is the official state flower of Georgia because it has come to symbolize the forced relocation of the Cherokee people from Georgia in 1838 through what is now often referred to as the “Trail of Tears.” The yellow center symbolizes the gold that was taken from the Cherokee in exchange for the land. In addition, the white petals reflect the several tribes of the Cherokee people. Along the path that the Cherokees took westbound to the Oklahoma Territory, there are still areas where the Cherokee Rose can be seen growing.

When Does The Cherokee Rose Make Its Appearance?

Late March and April are the only months during which the state flower of Georgia can be seen in bloom. Blooms appear in June (or earlier depending on the locale), and they sparkle brightly in the sunlight against the backdrop of dark, glossy, semi-evergreen leaves that endure for a long time. Although it is most likely to survive in USDA Zones 7 through 9, there have been reports of it thriving in zones ranging from 4 all the way up to 10.

What Does It Look Like?

The wild Cherokee Rose, the state flower of Georgia, is a shrub that can grow to be quite tall and can have stems that are up to 20 feet long. It has an abundance of bright green foliage and is covered in thorns to an extreme degree. Each flower is produced separately on its own lateral branch on the plant. The fruit has the shape of a pear and is hairy.

This exquisite rose has a color that is described as waxy white, and it has a huge golden heart. The petals have a luxuriously silky feel to them all around. They have a scent similar to that of cloves. Because of the plant’s resilience, it is ideally suited for use as a hedge. It has been used in this capacity to a significant extent all across the southern United States.

Where You Can Find It?

The Cherokee Rose, the state flower of Georgia, is a well-known sight in the southern United States. It may be seen in the Highlands and Coastal Plains in the region that is known as the Deep South. It is possible to come across instances of it growing along roadsides, on fences, and even in trash areas.

What Does It Symbolize?

The Cherokee people attach a significant meaning to these beautiful white blooms. The tradition has been passed down for generations. It recalls the account of the tears that Cherokee women cried for their spouses who were killed in battle. This legend is where the importance comes from. Because the chief prayed for them to find relief from their suffering, from that day forward, each tear turned into a beautiful flower.

The Cherokee people were relocated from Georgia to Oklahoma against their will, and it is also said that the tears they wept while being relocated were responsible for the spread of the Cherokee Rose throughout this region of the country, lending it the name “Trail of Tears.” This is how the state flower of Georgia got its name.